Brimstone (Fae & Alchemy, #2)

by Callie Hart

“Come now, Osha. Where else would an acolyte kneel to worship but at the altar of his god?”

“And what if there comes a day when all of this becomes too much, and I want to be carried? At least for a little while?” “Then it would be my honor and a privilege to do so, Saeris. Never doubt that. Whenever you need me to catch you, I am here, ready and willing. I’ll face the Blood Court for you, if you want me to. I’ll face Belikon, and Madra, and anyone or anything that wishes to do you harm.”

“And I will become your shadow.”

I’m here now, and just because I am your mate and you are mine doesn’t mean that I expect you to sit around looking pretty, or… or put down your weapons and adopt a different way of life. I would never want that for you. But you don’t have to be one thing here, Saeris. You can be many things. You can wear your leathers and fight every day of the year. I would never ask you not to. But sometimes, if you wanted to… you’re allowed to soften, Saeris. You’re allowed to stop baring your teeth at the world and take a breath. Because I’ve got you.”

“We don’t torture people,” she said, her tone full of ice. “Carrion tortures me daily,” I muttered.

“Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate, I hereby call you by your true name. I declare all oaths you have sworn null and void. Rise, Khydan Graystar Finvarra, in honor of the name you were given at birth! Rise up and fight!”